In the early hours of Friday morning in northwest Charlotte, a heart-wrenching event unfolded. A child was fatally struck by a vehicle on Gum Branch Road at Summerlea Drive. The incident occurred just before 7:30 a.m., leaving the community in shock. Channel 9 crews were on the scene and observed a pickup truck with damaged headlights and a pair of small shoes in the roadway. The details surrounding what the juvenile was doing before the accident remain unknown, but neighbors frequently reported seeing kids walking down Gum Branch Road to reach school. Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools confirmed to Channel 9 that the victim was a sixth-grade student at Coulwood STEM Academy, yet the victim's identity has not been disclosed yet. One neighbor, Tyeasha Vanburen, recounted waking up to the sound of sirens and becoming concerned when she saw the area blocked off. She was deeply shocked upon learning of the tragic event. "I can't imagine. My heart dropped because I have a young daughter, and I can't envision her engaging in an innocent act like walking to school and getting injured. It wasn't until I was on my way back that I realized the child didn't make it," she expressed. Currently, CMPD has not released the identity of the driver involved or if any charges will be filed in this case. This is an ongoing story, and for the latest updates, please check wsoctv.com.WATCH: CMPD Launches Civilian Crash Investigation Unit
The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department has taken a significant step by launching a Civilian Crash Investigation Unit. This initiative aims to enhance the investigation process and provide more comprehensive and accurate information. By involving civilians in the crash investigation, CMPD hopes to bring a fresh perspective and additional expertise to the table. This unit will work closely with the regular police force to ensure that every aspect of the crash is thoroughly examined. It is an important development that shows the department's commitment to improving the handling of such incidents and providing justice for the victims and their families.The establishment of the Civilian Crash Investigation Unit also highlights the need for a more collaborative approach in dealing with traffic accidents. It brings together different professionals with diverse skills and knowledge, which can lead to more effective investigations and better outcomes. This unit will play a crucial role in ensuring that the causes of the accident are properly identified and that appropriate measures are taken to prevent similar incidents from happening in the future. It is a step forward in the pursuit of safety on the roads and a testament to CMPD's dedication to serving the community.In addition to the launch of the Civilian Crash Investigation Unit, the incident in northwest Charlotte serves as a reminder of the importance of road safety. It is a tragic event that has touched the lives of many in the community. As we continue to follow the progress of this case and await more information, let us all remain vigilant and take steps to ensure the safety of ourselves and those around us. Whether it's being more cautious while driving or ensuring that children are properly accompanied when walking to school, every small action can make a difference in preventing such tragedies from occurring.The impact of this incident extends beyond the immediate aftermath. It has sparked conversations and raised awareness about the need for improved traffic safety measures and better protection for our children. It is a call to action for the community to come together and work towards creating a safer environment for everyone. Through collective efforts and a focus on prevention, we can hope to prevent similar tragedies from happening in the future and give hope to the families affected by this heartbreaking event.
